Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing embarrassment symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Embarrassment
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to embarrassment:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside embarrassment treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter embarrassment
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against embarrassment
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite embarrassment
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing embarrassment
Signature Strengths and Embarrassment
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust embarrassment intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Embarrassment Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace embarrassment treatment — it complements it. Treating embarrassment removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.